CALISTOGA, CA—On August 3, 2011, Sterling Vineyards opened it’s doors to host an industry event that showcased not only the rich variety of local food and wine purveyors but also the unique experience that has made Sterling one of Napa’s top visitor attractions.

Sterling Vineyards is one of the area’s most outstanding architectural landmarks. A commanding complex of bright white walls and curved bell towers, the winery rises from a forested volcanic knoll three hundred feet above the Napa Valley floor just south of the spa town of Calistoga.

Highlights of a visit to their tasting room include the short but spectacular ride on Napa Valley’s only aerial tramway.

Visitors can follow a self-guided tour to explore the stately facility at their own pace.

Okay… for those of you who have always wondered what actually goes on at those “lavish” California Wine Country parties… let’s get into it…

Regrettably, I can’t remember the last time I attended a lavish party in Napa. As you’ll see from this story most events here are California casual*. (*Definition: Ties and sport jackets will be confiscated at the door.)

Pictured above, pouring at tonight’s event, is the team from Acacia Vineyard one of the Pinot Noir pioneers of Napa’s Carneros appellation. The Carneros is a region of farmland and tidal marshes stretching north from San Pablo Bay. Due to the proximity of the bay, Acacia Vineyard basks in a maritime climate of morning fog and ocean breezes. The cooler air temperatures make Carneros perfect for growing the winery’s specialties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

I tried my best to scribble notes as I tasted several wines during the event. Acacia was pouring this 2008 Winery Lake Vineyard Pinot Noir. They told me that it received a 90 point rating from the Wine Spectator. As I wasn’t officially working, I did not spit and finished every drop. It was one of my favorite wines of the night!

The Acacia Vineyard tasting room is slightly off the beaten track. As it is by appointment only some advance planning will be required. But, the effort is worth it! I have enjoyed visiting their tasting room over the years not only for their wines but also to avoid the summer weekend crowds that frequent many nearby drop-in tasting rooms. A visit to Acacia will generally result in a much more intimate experience.

Acacia tasting room manager Sue Stuber was on hand during the event to answer questions and pour wine for guests. She was very nice. I learned that their 2009 Lone Tree Vineyard Pinot Noir, which received a very respectable 92 point rating from Wine Spectator, is expected to be released next month.

More about tonight’s wonderful event in Part 2 of the story coming up soon.